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Spiced Gingerbread Loaf

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 350
A warm, spiced gingerbread loaf perfect for cozy occasions, combining rich molasses and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1.5 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.125 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

Wet Ingredients

  • 0.67 cup unsulphured molasses (do not use blackstrap; Grandma's brand preferred)
  • 0.75 cup hot water (about 100°F (38°C))
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature)
  • 0.33 cup brown sugar (packed, dark preferred)
  • 1 large egg (at room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar (sifted)
  • 2-3 tablespoons orange juice

Instructions 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease an 8.5×4.5-inch or 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  • Whisk dry ingredients in a bowl; whisk molasses and hot water in another.
  • Cream butter and brown sugar, add egg and vanilla, then alternate adding dry ingredients and water/molasses until combined. Pour into pan.
  • Bake for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan 1 hour, then on rack.
  • Whisk confectioners’ sugar and orange juice, then drizzle over cooled loaf.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days; flavor improves after a day or two.
Calories: 350kcal
Cost: $15
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Gingerbread